The Allure of Hokkaido's Blue Pond in Biei - Japan Travel Sights

Biei, located in Hokkaido, is home to the famous Blue Pond (Shirogane Blue Pond).

This captivating spot is renowned for its crystal-clear cobalt blue waters, making it a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

The thing to know before you plan a trip around it: in winter the pond is under snow and the blue is not visible. What runs instead is a nightly illumination, from 22 October 2026 to 21 April 2027. Our Hokkaido Travel Guide has the lighting times and the car park hours and fees.

Why is the Blue Pond So Blue?

The pond’s striking blue color is due to a unique combination of sunlight and water quality.

The waters from the nearby Biei Shirogane Onsen and Shirohige Falls contain aluminum, sulfur, and lime.

When these elements mix with the Biei River (also known as Blue River), they create tiny colloidal particles.

Sunlight scatters off these particles, giving the pond its beautiful blue hue. Additionally, the lime deposits at the pond’s bottom enhance this blue effect, creating the mystical “Biei Blue.”

Formation of the Blue Pond

The Blue Pond is a man-made marvel created unintentionally while building a dam to control volcanic mudflows from Mount Tokachi’s eruption in 1988.

It gained international fame after a photo won an award in 2011 and was used as a wallpaper for a popular global device.

The contrast of the blue waters with the winter snow is especially breathtaking.

Seasonal Transformations

The Blue Pond offers different scenic views with each season:

• Spring: Meltwater gives the pond a unique greenish-blue tint.

• Summer: Bright sunlight makes the water a vivid light blue.

• Autumn: Fall foliage reflects off the pond, adding a colorful touch.

• Winter: Snow contrasts with the blue water, creating a magical scene.

Best Times for Photography

The Blue Pond’s appearance changes with the time of day:

• Early Morning: Capture ethereal backlit photos with fewer crowds.

• Midday: Experience the pond at its most vibrant under the high sun.

• Winter Nights: Enjoy the pond’s enchanting light-up, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere from November to April.

Visiting Etiquette and Safety

To ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors, please follow these guidelines:

• Drone flights are prohibited.
• Avoid using flash photography excessively.
• Do not damage plants or trees.
• Be mindful of tripods and space in crowded areas.
• Do not climb or cross barriers.

Best Times to Visit

The Blue Pond is less crowded in winter due to harsh weather conditions and the frozen surface.

However, the snowy landscape offers a unique beauty worth seeing.

Access to Blue Pond

The Blue Pond is free to visit and open to the public. Nearby facilities are limited, so wear suitable footwear and bring a flashlight for nighttime visits. Most visitors travel by car or bus from the nearest stations.

From JR Biei Station:

• By Car: About 25 minutes via Route 966.
• By Bus: Take the Dohoku Bus to Shirogane Onsen, then a 5-minute walk.
• By Tourist Bus: Various tours available, including half-day guided options.

Nearby Attractions

Combine your visit to the Blue Pond with other local highlights:

Shirohige Falls

A 30-meter waterfall known for its striking white streams against the cobalt blue Biei River. The falls are illuminated year-round, offering a magical winter view.

Biei Shrine

A popular power spot for romance and good fortune, located just a short drive from JR Biei Station.

Ken and Mary Tree

An iconic poplar tree featured in a famous TV commercial, standing alone in the expansive fields of Biei.

Shirogane Onsen

Relax in the therapeutic waters of Shirogane Onsen, known for its milky white sulfuric waters.

Recommended Tours

For a convenient and enjoyable visit, consider joining a guided tour. Options include private taxi tours and bus tours from Sapporo, often combined with other attractions like Asahiyama Zoo and lavender fields.

Extend Your Trip to Furano

Explore nearby Furano, famous for its lavender fields, rafting, hot air balloon rides, and winter activities like ice fishing.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hokkaido’s Blue Pond and the surrounding area, and make your trip to Japan unforgettable.

What to combine it with

Most visitors reach Biei 美瑛 from Sapporo, where Shiroi Koibito Park is the easiest half day in the city.

At the other end of the island, Mount Hakodate is the other view people come to Hokkaido for.